tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23053204129061578922017-12-31T02:56:49.841-08:00TonyaUtkinaHappy and Bright Jewelry, Felted Accessories and City Style Crocheted ScarvesTonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.comBlogger172125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-44806732776695388052016-09-19T09:30:00.006-07:002016-09-20T11:34:38.522-07:00An Article about my Felted Lace scaves<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /></div>NORO Magazine just published an article about my felted lace scarves <br> <br><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tonya_utkina/" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hKGOkaIf_hI/V-ASEJCLE1I/AAAAAAAACMg/g0tcmhopykEuIwsg_rrjfiwR0nXsPLm8wCLcB/s320/Noro.jpg" width="252" height="320" alt="NORO" /></a><br> <br>Pictures of my felted scarves are available at my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tonya_utkina/">Instagram</a><br> <br>My <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/CityCrochet">ETSY</a> online shop offers a wide selection of felted scarves. I'll be happy to answer any of your questions.<br> <br>More pictures any information are available at my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TonyaUtkinaAccessories/">Tonya Utkina Facebook page</a>. <br> TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com0Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-19683381683198903672015-10-22T09:53:00.000-07:002015-10-22T09:56:20.520-07:00Lake Michigan at sunset, Chicago IllinoisWhile waiting for my son to finish his soccer practice I took a few pictures of Lake Michigan at sunset. Beautiful lake it is!<br> <br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CSKqMVg2q44/VikTD6Hue5I/AAAAAAAACGs/FriVCCuJW00/s1600/LakeMichigan2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CSKqMVg2q44/VikTD6Hue5I/AAAAAAAACGs/FriVCCuJW00/s320/LakeMichigan2.jpg" alt="Lake Michigan at sunset"/></a> <br> <br>This place is called Montrose beach at Lake Michigan.<br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TqI4FX__3o8/VikTD58F9oI/AAAAAAAACGw/q0wwKOcUg3U/s1600/LakeMichigan3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TqI4FX__3o8/VikTD58F9oI/AAAAAAAACGw/q0wwKOcUg3U/s320/LakeMichigan3.jpg" alt="Lake Michigan at sunset" /></a> <br> <br>They have a small space designeted as a nature area with birds and insects one will not see in other places.<br> <br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lI1QFoVi984/VikTEM2L-BI/AAAAAAAACG0/3Z5loy-bPYg/s1600/LakeMichigan4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lI1QFoVi984/VikTEM2L-BI/AAAAAAAACG0/3Z5loy-bPYg/s320/LakeMichigan4.jpg" alt="Lake Michigan at sunset" /></a> <br><br> <div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2015/10/lake-michigan-at-sunset-chicago-illinois.html" data-layout="standard" data-action="like" data-show-faces="true" data-share="true"></div><br> <br> <a data-pin-do="buttonBookmark" null href="//www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_gray_20.png" /></a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async defer src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script><br>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-35257372545812129682015-10-15T15:59:00.002-07:002015-10-22T09:55:30.901-07:00Needle felted toys, mini birds and animals by Natasha BelovaAmazing needle felted miniature birds and animals by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/znmystery">Natasha Belova</a>. Each felted animal is a brooch and could be pinned to a jacket or a coat. The colors are amazing and the craftsmanship is of the highest order. All these pins and brooches could be great small gifts for your loved ones. In addition to pins Natasha makes <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/znmystery?section_id=16628109&ref=shopsection_leftnav_2">toys</a>. Each toy is needle felted of wool and other natural fibers and has a personality of its own.<br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UhTHYxS1rhw/ViAtQ59yTRI/AAAAAAAACF4/V7Z2ucSzaeI/s1600/Natasha-Felt5.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UhTHYxS1rhw/ViAtQ59yTRI/AAAAAAAACF4/V7Z2ucSzaeI/s320/Natasha-Felt5.jpg" /></a> <br> <br><b>Could you please tell us a bit about yourself?</b><br> <br> My name is Natasha and I live in a small city Zhukovsky in Russia. I work as a graphic designer in a local company. I've always loved to create with my hands. When I was in my twenties I used to sew and paint. I've discovered the magical world of felting many years ago and have been experimenting with felting ever since. I've started hand making small needle felted toys and pins about three years ago. They were small gifts for dear friends at first. Later, I began selling my felted animals at shows and through local shops.<br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d9fNS4AG20s/ViArXAmCKKI/AAAAAAAACFc/0uySpYmtLkc/s1600/Natasha-Felt2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d9fNS4AG20s/ViArXAmCKKI/AAAAAAAACFc/0uySpYmtLkc/s320/Natasha-Felt2.jpg" /></a><br> <br>In 2014 I've finally decided to open my Etsy shop <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/znmystery?section_id=16629474&ref=shopsection_leftnav_1">znmystery</a>. When I have free time (mostly after work) I make miniature bird and animal pins and brooches. <br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IBUDmhcg_o4/ViArTOghGjI/AAAAAAAACFU/v2ftlV-O6EM/s1600/Natasha-Felt1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IBUDmhcg_o4/ViArTOghGjI/AAAAAAAACFU/v2ftlV-O6EM/s320/Natasha-Felt1.jpg" /></a><br> <br><b>What are your main sources of inspiration?</b><br> <br> I always get inspired by nature that offers such a wide variety of species in all shapes and colors. Nothing can compare to the world around us! My owls, finches, hedgehogs, rabbits have all been modeled on amazing birds and animals that live in nature. I try to spend as such time outside as possible. I love to travel, to take strolls in local forests and parks. I'm into mushroom picking that is quite popular in my region. I use only natural and organic materials for my pins, brooches and toys. Wool, silk, cotton, linen are an integral part of nature. By using them I try to pass a small part of nature on to whoever buys my birds and animals.<br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ht2d7wLQKi4/ViArfaaPClI/AAAAAAAACFs/DYmCEv7wbhc/s1600/Natasha-Felt4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ht2d7wLQKi4/ViArfaaPClI/AAAAAAAACFs/DYmCEv7wbhc/s320/Natasha-Felt4.jpg" /></a><br> <br> <a data-pin-do="buttonBookmark" null href="//www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_gray_20.png" /></a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async defer src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script><br><br><div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2015/10/needle-felted-toys-mini-birds-and.html" data-send="true" data-width="450" data-show-faces="true"></div><br>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-74924858858107651642015-10-13T10:47:00.002-07:002015-10-13T10:47:43.016-07:00Montrose Bog beach in Chicago<br>Just discovered this nice dog beach in Chicago. One can tell how much fun all these dogs have running around the beach. It's located next to Montrose Beach on lake Michigan and is supported by an non-profit organization. Volunteers keep it clean and neat. The beach is listed as one of the best dog parks in the country.<br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i-lv4t4Gqx4/Vh0-4WJizVI/AAAAAAAACE8/zgXdnPGxuqA/s1600/beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i-lv4t4Gqx4/Vh0-4WJizVI/AAAAAAAACE8/zgXdnPGxuqA/s320/beach.jpg" alt="Montrose dog beach"/></a><br> <br>Inspired by the cool breeze and nice weather I came home and created a pale blue and gray hand felted scarf. Since I leave not too far from the lake now it looks like it will be my prime source of inspiration. <br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IB_P6512_Tc/Vh1AH0TkzlI/AAAAAAAACFE/ZK4bOjqJwBE/s1600/BlueGrey3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IB_P6512_Tc/Vh1AH0TkzlI/AAAAAAAACFE/ZK4bOjqJwBE/s320/BlueGrey3.jpg" alt="Blue Gray hand felted sacrf"/></a><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/CityCrochet"></a><br>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com0Montrose Beach, Illinois, USA41.966331 -87.63723329999999141.960427999999993 -87.6473183 41.972234 -87.627148299999988tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-60391507457083064962013-11-25T07:25:00.000-08:002013-11-25T07:36:31.351-08:00Virginia 2nd Annual ChristkindlmarketWe had wonderful time at the 2nd Annual Christkindlmarket at <a href="http://www.travelersrestfarm.com/">Travelers Rest Farm </a> in Virginia. The market was set up in an old barn and had a very distinctive European feel. A traditional Christkindlmarket is basically a holiday market set up in a typical European village with its timber houses, decorated Christmas trees and snow. Virginia 2nd Annual Christkindlmarket was very much a traditional festive event. We didn't have snow this time around though.<br> <br>The list of all the vendors can be located at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/617356884981377/">Christkindlmarket Virginia 2nd Annual</a>.<br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J9neSe5gTfE/UpNntUrmiCI/AAAAAAAAB2I/E4xMTAIdges/s1600/Christkindl7.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J9neSe5gTfE/UpNntUrmiCI/AAAAAAAAB2I/E4xMTAIdges/s320/Christkindl7.jpg" /></a><br> <br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ua7xYQZaZ4/UpNnsIH_odI/AAAAAAAAB1k/8fkWhkhu_2g/s1600/Christkindl2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ua7xYQZaZ4/UpNnsIH_odI/AAAAAAAAB1k/8fkWhkhu_2g/s320/Christkindl2.jpg" /></a><br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4dhCUIzCPXA/UpNnr4lEWwI/AAAAAAAAB1g/9a5HZVDUXqk/s1600/Christkindl1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4dhCUIzCPXA/UpNnr4lEWwI/AAAAAAAAB1g/9a5HZVDUXqk/s320/Christkindl1.jpg" /></a><br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KHlpRU_s5aQ/UpNnssGbEII/AAAAAAAAB2k/-sxKvfVdNZQ/s1600/Christkindl3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KHlpRU_s5aQ/UpNnssGbEII/AAAAAAAAB2k/-sxKvfVdNZQ/s320/Christkindl3.jpg" /></a><br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d6hXkTN7rr0/UpNntkHwhYI/AAAAAAAAB2Q/9TYoQEbp7dw/s1600/Christkindl8.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d6hXkTN7rr0/UpNntkHwhYI/AAAAAAAAB2Q/9TYoQEbp7dw/s320/Christkindl8.jpg" /></a><br> <br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zN6QTD_BYtI/UpNnsplhcDI/AAAAAAAAB1w/kSQVKhpPbZY/s1600/Christkindl4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zN6QTD_BYtI/UpNnsplhcDI/AAAAAAAAB1w/kSQVKhpPbZY/s320/Christkindl4.jpg" /></a><br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nfKhjbHwz90/UpNns_NVR6I/AAAAAAAAB18/UDQcnCxg5sU/s1600/Christkindl5.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nfKhjbHwz90/UpNns_NVR6I/AAAAAAAAB18/UDQcnCxg5sU/s320/Christkindl5.jpg" /></a><br><br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UNsDP68Hjo8/UpNntNvFswI/AAAAAAAAB2E/PU8i1r-RgMg/s1600/Christkindl6.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UNsDP68Hjo8/UpNntNvFswI/AAAAAAAAB2E/PU8i1r-RgMg/s320/Christkindl6.jpg" /></a><br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fkvphyFqS8E/UpNntzpTcOI/AAAAAAAAB2c/XYuKqlLzmrg/s1600/Christkindl9.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fkvphyFqS8E/UpNntzpTcOI/AAAAAAAAB2c/XYuKqlLzmrg/s320/Christkindl9.jpg" /></a><br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-95CFFeXannQ/UpNnsDgj7RI/AAAAAAAAB1o/DTn4iL37xLc/s1600/Christkindl10.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-95CFFeXannQ/UpNnsDgj7RI/AAAAAAAAB1o/DTn4iL37xLc/s320/Christkindl10.jpg" /></a><br><br> <a href="//www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F11%2Fvirginia-2nd-annual-christkindlmarket.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-J9neSe5gTfE%2FUpNntUrmiCI%2FAAAAAAAAB2I%2FE4xMTAIdges%2Fs320%2FChristkindl7.jpg&description=Virginia%202nd%20Annual%20Christkindlmarket%20at%20Travelers%20Rest%20Farm" data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-config="beside"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_gray_20.png" /></a><div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2013/11/virginia-2nd-annual-christkindlmarket.html" data-layout="standard" data-action="like" data-show-faces="true" data-share="true"></div>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-75711403076631138472013-10-10T10:40:00.001-07:002013-10-10T10:49:45.469-07:00DIY Cute Pumpkins for HalloweenWe will felt a few cute pumpkins for Halloween. Our pumpkins could be great gifts for friends and family. They will look wonderful in your living room or your kitchen as signs of beautiful Autumn and approaching Halloween.<br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0FwE1jQuAek/UlbhhZHz3kI/AAAAAAAAB0g/7lJjZW7wSIs/s1600/Halloween7-p.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0FwE1jQuAek/UlbhhZHz3kI/AAAAAAAAB0g/7lJjZW7wSIs/s320/Halloween7-p.jpg" /></a><br> <br>We will need some orange felting wool, a glass of water and a piece of soap, black thread and a needle. We will felt our pumpkins with water and soap so it makes sense to do it on surfaces that don't get damaged by water. A kitchen table should be a good place once it's covered with a water resistant tablecloth. You won't need too much space. The amount of water you will use is minimal.<br> <br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_YAdAEo8sZo/UlbiVfGc-jI/AAAAAAAAB0o/ipahtm3wNuM/s1600/Halloween1).jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_YAdAEo8sZo/UlbiVfGc-jI/AAAAAAAAB0o/ipahtm3wNuM/s320/Halloween1).jpg" /></a><br> <br>Take a piece of orange wool and form a ball in your hands. Water your wool and add some soap to it. Now gently squeeze the piece of wool a few times. Start rolling it between your palms. Keep rolling for 5 to 10 minutes adding water and soap if needed. <br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--9zKVEoxz7k/Ulbi4eRZVVI/AAAAAAAAB0w/o3mRzWgs6Pw/s1600/Halloween3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--9zKVEoxz7k/Ulbi4eRZVVI/AAAAAAAAB0w/o3mRzWgs6Pw/s320/Halloween3.jpg" /></a><br> <br> Once your ball has become somewhat firm and solid rinse it well and let it dry. The goal is to make the ball not too firm so that you will be able to get a needle through it once it's dry.<br> <br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9jgK4fQiWx8/UlbjHWZQ_SI/AAAAAAAAB04/_CLUHXtaXbw/s1600/Halloween4-p.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9jgK4fQiWx8/UlbjHWZQ_SI/AAAAAAAAB04/_CLUHXtaXbw/s320/Halloween4-p.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Once your orange ball is dry it's time to turn it into a pumpkin. Take a black thread and a needle. Start in the middle of the orange ball adding loops around it. Six loops should be OK. At the end it makes sense to add an extra loop to serve as a hanging thread.<br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8kqLblqiK6g/UlbkrGgs5DI/AAAAAAAAB1E/DDp5LgH4rfY/s1600/Halloween5-p.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8kqLblqiK6g/UlbkrGgs5DI/AAAAAAAAB1E/DDp5LgH4rfY/s320/Halloween5-p.jpg" /></a><br> <br>It's an easy DIY project that produces a great result. You will have bright and cute pumpkins made of natural materials. They could serve as small Halloween gifts for your friends.<br><div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2013/10/diy-cute-pumpkins-for-halloween.html" data-width="The pixel width of the plugin" data-height="The pixel height of the plugin" data-colorscheme="light" data-layout="standard" data-action="like" data-show-faces="true" data-send="false"></div><a href="//www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F10%2Fdiy-cute-pumpkins-for-halloween.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-0FwE1jQuAek%2FUlbhhZHz3kI%2FAAAAAAAAB0g%2F7lJjZW7wSIs%2Fs320%2FHalloween7-p.jpg&description=DIY%20Cute%20pumpkins%20for%20Halloween" data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-config="beside"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-46208444422374161272013-10-07T11:05:00.001-07:002013-10-07T11:08:39.372-07:00Sweet Cheeks sensitive skin natural productsI had a chance to interview Vanessa Mccauley of <a href="http://sweetcheeksallnatural.com/">Sweet Cheeks</a> who lives in Richmond, VA and makes unique all-natural skin care products for adults and children. <br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kQ6gKs-rCCo/UlL1WIo6LfI/AAAAAAAABzs/FtdY0onhcRI/s1600/Vanessa1).jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kQ6gKs-rCCo/UlL1WIo6LfI/AAAAAAAABzs/FtdY0onhcRI/s320/Vanessa1).jpg" /></a><br> <br><b>How did you start?</b>Trial and error really. I found a recipe online to make body butter. It was okay but not great, so I tweaked it. Over time, I learned the balance. How to get the consistency of feel I wanted. I did it at home for years before I started selling it. <br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GkIUOuzcrnw/UlL0clwqVmI/AAAAAAAABzU/m9W3ADJ6xhM/s1600/Mint9.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GkIUOuzcrnw/UlL0clwqVmI/AAAAAAAABzU/m9W3ADJ6xhM/s320/Mint9.jpg" /></a><br> <br><b>Why did you start? </b>It started with my son. He had terrible eczema. I tried all the drug store lotions the doctor told me to try to no avail. Finally the doctor wanted to put him on steroidal cream. That scared me. So I came home and started researching. I found out mineral oil is horrible for eczema. Every single cream the doctor recommended had mineral oil. So I set out to make a lotion for my son that would help. <br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eArAFlMM7UA/UlL1JFYoSsI/AAAAAAAABzk/pAbm_pzzLrU/s1600/Mix3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eArAFlMM7UA/UlL1JFYoSsI/AAAAAAAABzk/pAbm_pzzLrU/s320/Mix3.jpg" /></a><br> <br><b>Where do you make your items?</b>At home. However, our plan is to convert our detached garage into a workshop because Sweet Cheeks has taken over the house. <br> <br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i7Szu08Gxzs/UlL1eUp0CuI/AAAAAAAABz0/fXGd282edmI/s1600/BlueAll1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i7Szu08Gxzs/UlL1eUp0CuI/AAAAAAAABz0/fXGd282edmI/s320/BlueAll1.jpg" /></a><br> <br><b>Where did you learn how to make your skin care products? </b>Partially online partially by making a lot of mistakes. Sadly, often I had to find out lots of what did NOT work to get to what did. My solid lotion bar probably saw 10-15 fails before I ever got it close to what I wanted. Then it was just small tweaks. However, I suspect now, it is even easier to find recipes and instructional videos on the web.<br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gaF7KliZ1UU/UlL1nMLrFFI/AAAAAAAAB0E/hSTzgwIL5y0/s1600/ButterMeUp5.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gaF7KliZ1UU/UlL1nMLrFFI/AAAAAAAAB0E/hSTzgwIL5y0/s320/ButterMeUp5.jpg" /></a><br> <br><b>Is it hard to find a good supplier of the ingredients? </b>For the most part I have one supplier I use for most of my raw ingredients that I love. The quality of what I get is amazing, they are easy to work with, and have a good supply. The thing I have the biggest issue with is essential oil. The price can fluctuate greatly sometimes as can the quality. So I stick with a supplier that has a very consistent quality but that limits the oils I have access to. There are other oils I would love to work with but have not found a supplier that can give me a consistency that I need. I would love if there was a local shop that I could smell the oils that also allowed me to purchase in bulk. <br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Aic-_2FEZaY/UlL1thwaNrI/AAAAAAAAB0M/_O-tchhPjtU/s1600/RoundCalendula.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Aic-_2FEZaY/UlL1thwaNrI/AAAAAAAAB0M/_O-tchhPjtU/s320/RoundCalendula.jpg" /></a> <br><b>Did you have to obtain any certificates? </b> No and no. I vacillate on regulating the beauty industry. On one hand, what goes into products that go on your skin is so important. Companies have been allowed to put toxic things in products for too long. On the other hand I don't know if regulation will do more to protect consumers than what the FDA's organic labeling did. It is a cost prohibitive stamp that is impracticable for small farms and does little to really produce the cleaner farming practices consumers want. So I don't know what the answer is other then, know the company. What are the company values? Are they transparent in their practices. Look at ingredients. Contact them with questions. A good company should always be thrilled to tell you why they did what they do and how. <br> <br><b>Where do you sell your products ?</b>I sell on line and at local shops. My products are available at a few Local Richmond shops such as Nest Antiques, Re Funk It and Orange.<br> <div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2013/10/sweet-cheeks-sensitive-skin-natural.html" data-width="The pixel width of the plugin" data-height="The pixel height of the plugin" data-colorscheme="light" data-layout="standard" data-action="like" data-show-faces="true" data-send="false"></div><a href="//www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F10%2Fsweet-cheeks-sensitive-skin-natural.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-GkIUOuzcrnw%2FUlL0clwqVmI%2FAAAAAAAABzU%2Fm9W3ADJ6xhM%2Fs320%2FMint9.jpg&description=Sweet%20Cheeks%20sensitive%20skin%20natural%20products" data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-config="beside"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-1369240507237707562013-09-30T17:18:00.000-07:002013-11-25T19:06:06.057-08:00Christmas gift ideasWe will make a Christmas gift that is an easy and simple DIY project. <br> <br>We will need a wooden bracelet, a few nail polishes and a roll of masking tape. The wooden bracelet should be plain wood. Such bracelets could be purchased on-line or in craft shops. I suggest you try it on before starting a project. It would be a disappointment if once you finish painting your bracelet won't fit.<br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-maKXG3QFk8w/UkoSl0UqFoI/AAAAAAAAByE/cD2hzVry1ZQ/s1600/Bracelet6.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-maKXG3QFk8w/UkoSl0UqFoI/AAAAAAAAByE/cD2hzVry1ZQ/s320/Bracelet6.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Look at your nail polish collection and select a few nail polishes that match. We will use them as our paint. They are very durable and have a nice luster. Masking tape will help us paint the pattern we design.<br> <br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KCB1P0TB7xc/UkoSx3rQqCI/AAAAAAAAByM/mP8RDxPsOpY/s1600/Bracelet1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KCB1P0TB7xc/UkoSx3rQqCI/AAAAAAAAByM/mP8RDxPsOpY/s320/Bracelet1.jpg" /></a><br> <br>To start apply masking tape to the bracelet. Make sure the tape is adhered well to the wooden bracelet. Otherwise you will have paint spills and the bracelet will look messy. I will paint a pattern of stripes on my bracelet, thus, I'll apply the tape so that there are stripes of untreated wood. I'll leave 4 or 5 untreated wood stripes on my bracelet. Now color wooden stripes with the same hue of nail polish.<br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hMHRPuSBZ40/UkoS-ffgGpI/AAAAAAAAByc/EbCs0C6mCX8/s1600/Bracelet3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hMHRPuSBZ40/UkoS-ffgGpI/AAAAAAAAByc/EbCs0C6mCX8/s320/Bracelet3.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Once the polish is dry slowly remove the masking tape. You will see nice colored stripes on the bracelet. Now apply a new set of masking tape to color the bracelet with a new nail polish shade. Repeat as many times as nail polish colors you have. Make sure the nail polish is dry and the masking tape is adhered well.<br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E5ppm69Mqsc/UkoTEiJUrZI/AAAAAAAAByk/9nPPCZzADVM/s1600/Bracelet4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E5ppm69Mqsc/UkoTEiJUrZI/AAAAAAAAByk/9nPPCZzADVM/s320/Bracelet4.jpg" /></a><br> <br>I like to mix colors without any rule or pattern, thus, a dark red color may be followed by a golden hue and then by a dark purple one. Then I change the order. I change stripe sizes as well to make my bracelet look special and creative.<br> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uOiH-Om2jTU/UkrTKSChK8I/AAAAAAAABzA/Otu19ZzFWdQ/s1600/Bracelet7.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uOiH-Om2jTU/UkrTKSChK8I/AAAAAAAABzA/Otu19ZzFWdQ/s320/Bracelet7.jpg" /></a><br><a href="//www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F09%2Fchristmas-gift-ideas.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-maKXG3QFk8w%2FUkoSl0UqFoI%2FAAAAAAAAByE%2FcD2hzVry1ZQ%2Fs320%2FBracelet6.jpg&description=Christmas%20gift%20ideas.%20How%20to%20make%20a%20bracelet.%20Easy%20and%20simple%20DIY%20project." data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-config="above"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br><div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2013/09/christmas-gift-ideas.html" data-width="450" data-show-faces="true" data-send="true"></div>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-35866112753035864002013-09-24T15:19:00.000-07:002013-09-27T11:22:33.223-07:00Nail polish wooden beads necklaceWe will make a necklace of nail polish colored wooden beads. If you have a few old and dusty nail polishes don't through them away yet. You will be able to use them to make a cool looking necklace. <br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_XXezGPmTxA/UkIM6f5zdPI/AAAAAAAABxM/o4HLKrtEKpU/s1600/GreenNecklace5.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_XXezGPmTxA/UkIM6f5zdPI/AAAAAAAABxM/o4HLKrtEKpU/s320/GreenNecklace5.jpg" /></a><br> <br>You will need about 20 small wooden beads with holes and a few nail polishes of matching colors. To start place a wooden bead on a wooden barbecue stick. It will be easier to color your bead that way. Start applying polish on a bead layer by layer. Once you are done with one bead move to the next one. Once all your beads are colored let them dry.<br> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ac3_D0aUwgw/UkIPq6SodqI/AAAAAAAABxw/1HXYGFsst4k/s1600/GreenNecklace-Gaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ac3_D0aUwgw/UkIPq6SodqI/AAAAAAAABxw/1HXYGFsst4k/s320/GreenNecklace-Gaw.jpg" /></a> <br>It's time now to crochet a necklace. You will need a mercerized cotton thread of a matching color and a crocheting hook. First place all the beads on the cotton thread. It will be easier to crochet your necklace that way. Start crocheting a simple row adding bead as you progress. I usually count loops so that my beads are placed at equal intervals. Once you've crocheted the necklace make a large loop on one end of it. Add a large glass bead on another end of the necklace. It will serve as a clasp.<br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PEbVMZqxRSI/UkINURVSFsI/AAAAAAAABxU/01dYrJA_t2I/s1600/GreenNecklace3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PEbVMZqxRSI/UkINURVSFsI/AAAAAAAABxU/01dYrJA_t2I/s320/GreenNecklace3.jpg" /></a><br> <br>You can wear your necklace around your neck or as a bracelet on your wrist. You can tie it around your ankle or wear it as belt. Enjoy! <br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7b5RzdIZL8c/UkINyy1e96I/AAAAAAAABxc/Da8aNihU5qU/s1600/GreenNecklace4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7b5RzdIZL8c/UkINyy1e96I/AAAAAAAABxc/Da8aNihU5qU/s320/GreenNecklace4.jpg" /></a><br> <div class="fb-like" data-href="http://www.tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2013/09/nail-polish-wooden-beads-necklace.html" data-width="450" data-show-faces="true" data-send="true"></div><a href="//www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F09%2Fnail-polish-wooden-beads-necklace.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-_XXezGPmTxA%2FUkIM6f5zdPI%2FAAAAAAAABxM%2Fo4HLKrtEKpU%2Fs320%2FGreenNecklace5.jpg&description=How%20to%20make%20a%20necklace%20using%20nail%20polish%20and%20simple%20wooden%20beads" data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-config="beside"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-41332371140672581482013-06-20T08:50:00.000-07:002013-06-20T09:40:12.773-07:00Crocheted dolls and toys by FancyKnittlesI've recently came across amazing and super cute crocheted dolls and toys by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/FancyKnittles">FancyKnittles</a>. Each doll looks different and unique with every detail thought out and nicely crafted. I had a chance to talk to the artist behind FancyKnittles whose name is Irina.<br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yx9SxX0NBrE/UcMjzIHR6KI/AAAAAAAABvk/MQws2pUV9oo/s1600/FancyKnittles3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yx9SxX0NBrE/UcMjzIHR6KI/AAAAAAAABvk/MQws2pUV9oo/s320/FancyKnittles3.jpg" /></a><br> <br><b>Can you please tell us a bit about yourself?</b><br> <br>I was born and raised in Perm, Russia. I'm a professional architect and a very creative person by nature. A few years ago we moved to Sauthend on Sea in Great Britain. I started crocheting when my son was about two years old. He is 16 now.<br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OK6lfdJ2o4g/UcMj_hLZljI/AAAAAAAABvs/H4svY2xSfVQ/s1600/FancyKnittles1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OK6lfdJ2o4g/UcMj_hLZljI/AAAAAAAABvs/H4svY2xSfVQ/s320/FancyKnittles1.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Visiting one of the local Perm art shows many years ago I got fascinated by all the beautiful art pieces created by local artists. That was like a awakening for me. I realized I had an urge to start making my very own art. Crocheting looked like a relatively easy skill to learn. I figured out that I could keep crocheting and taking care of my little son at the same time. All one needs is a hook and a thread. Crocheting offers a relative flexibility as one can crochet and still play, draw or be on a playground with a child. Besides I was always much into dolls. Thus, my first crocheted dolls were born.<br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w7LBeXnX5uk/UcMkG_zz_3I/AAAAAAAABv0/wJl1kIsb-n8/s1600/FancyKnittles2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w7LBeXnX5uk/UcMkG_zz_3I/AAAAAAAABv0/wJl1kIsb-n8/s320/FancyKnittles2.jpg" /></a><br> <br>My first dolls were rather dull and plain I should admit. But within time I learned the skill and before I knew it people started buying my tiny crocheted creatures. I have a son and he never expressed much interest in my crocheted dolls which was probably a good thing. I could concentrate on making dolls for my customers and, thus, earn some money. Life in Russia back then was rather tough. I remember making whole "Doll houses" full of different doll personalities, furniture, etc. Once I started working I had less and less time to devote to crocheting and eventually I took a break from making my crocheted dolls. My break lasted for about 10 years.<br> <br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hpv07CK3V3o/UcMkOP29iaI/AAAAAAAABv8/yA8OA5HBPJQ/s1600/FancyKnittles4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hpv07CK3V3o/UcMkOP29iaI/AAAAAAAABv8/yA8OA5HBPJQ/s320/FancyKnittles4.jpg" /></a><br> <br>These days I'm crocheting again. My dolls are somewhat similar to ones I used to crochet and yet a bit different. Everything changes! I'm continuing to be a mom of a big big family of crocheted creatures and all my "babies" have the same last name - FancyKnittles.<br> <br>I wish I could tell you how I come up with a new design for a new doll. Honestly I don't know. I get inspired by a lot of things I see around me or events that occur in my life. All visual and sensual information turns into a new creation that has its own character, looks unique and different. <br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bJlqUGm_-WA/UcMkXK2_jMI/AAAAAAAABwE/z6alc6z_YlQ/s1600/FancyKnittles5.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bJlqUGm_-WA/UcMkXK2_jMI/AAAAAAAABwE/z6alc6z_YlQ/s320/FancyKnittles5.jpg" /></a><br><div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2013/06/crocheted-dolls-and-toys-by.html" data-send="true" data-width="450" data-show-faces="true"></div><br><a href="//pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F06%2Fcrocheted-dolls-and-toys-by.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-yx9SxX0NBrE%2FUcMjzIHR6KI%2FAAAAAAAABvk%2FMQws2pUV9oo%2Fs320%2FFancyKnittles3.jpg&description=Crocheted%20dolls%20and%20toys%20by%20FancyKnittles" data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-config="beside"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-57138986995946834502013-06-13T08:07:00.000-07:002013-06-13T08:09:53.062-07:00DIY how to refresh an old necklaceI've recently bought an old necklace in a vintage store. It looked pretty dull and uninspiring but I somehow liked the beads and thought I could remake it into something fresh and new.<BR> <BR><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NKZVngAw2PA/UbncbJ9ntYI/AAAAAAAABtQ/yyf1FeAsDkc/s1600/DIYNeckP6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NKZVngAw2PA/UbncbJ9ntYI/AAAAAAAABtQ/yyf1FeAsDkc/s320/DIYNeckP6.jpg" /></a></div><BR> <BR>I first disassembled the necklace and separated all the beads into three piles. I washed all the beads thoroughly in a soapy water to remove all the dust. I dried the beads on a piece of paper.<BR> <BR><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1ncY2Q6Oc-M/UbnczJDi-II/AAAAAAAABtY/l_-QpMWnOU4/s1600/DIYNeckP4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1ncY2Q6Oc-M/UbnczJDi-II/AAAAAAAABtY/l_-QpMWnOU4/s320/DIYNeckP4.jpg" /></a></div><BR> <BR>I decided not to use red beads this time as I didn't really like the original combination of charcoal grey, golden and red. I put them aside for the next project. Instead I decided to go with gray and golden beads. <BR> <BR><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CUzXWBGLxBk/UbndRCAc0MI/AAAAAAAABtg/E4tJWuL3Sx4/s1600/DIYNeckP5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CUzXWBGLxBk/UbndRCAc0MI/AAAAAAAABtg/E4tJWuL3Sx4/s320/DIYNeckP5.jpg" /></a></div><BR> <BR>I threaded all the beads in a particular pattern with two gray beads followed by one golden bead. With a regular crocheting hook I crocheted beads one by one into a necklace. <BR> <BR><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AWShIKiXUkE/UbndvNSGPHI/AAAAAAAABto/GPGASMOHmTQ/s1600/DIYNeckP3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AWShIKiXUkE/UbndvNSGPHI/AAAAAAAABto/GPGASMOHmTQ/s320/DIYNeckP3.jpg" /></a></div><BR> <BR>The necklace is about 40 in. long and I can wear it as one or two strings depending on my mood and my dress:).<BR> <BR><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e_aS6qNcUyg/UbneNmx5F5I/AAAAAAAABt4/xW-aq-1aIeo/s1600/DIYNeckP2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e_aS6qNcUyg/UbneNmx5F5I/AAAAAAAABt4/xW-aq-1aIeo/s320/DIYNeckP2.jpg" /></a></div><BR> <BR>Since the necklace is rather long I can wear it as a bracelet or a head accessory. Its neutral colors go with pretty much any dress and it works ideal with a business casual or an office outfit.<BR> <BR><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pq18u1BwRWA/Ubnez7pZABI/AAAAAAAABuA/yBffuYz5vgw/s1600/DIYNeckP1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pq18u1BwRWA/Ubnez7pZABI/AAAAAAAABuA/yBffuYz5vgw/s320/DIYNeckP1.jpg" /></a></div><BR><div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2013/06/diy-how-to-refresh-old-necklace.html" data-send="true" data-width="450" data-show-faces="true"></div><br><br><a href="//pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F06%2Fdiy-how-to-refresh-old-necklace.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-e_aS6qNcUyg%2FUbneNmx5F5I%2FAAAAAAAABt4%2FxW-aq-1aIeo%2Fs320%2FDIYNeckP2.jpg&description=DIY%20how%20to%20refresh%20an%20old%20necklace" data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-config="above"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-3349298360133897762013-06-06T17:25:00.000-07:002013-06-06T17:36:27.426-07:00Refunkit repurposed upcycled recycled gifts and goodies store in AshlandI've been today to a totally great store with a fresh idea behind it. <a href="http://www.refunkit.com/">Refunkit</a> (re.funk.it) sells upcycled, recycled and repurposed handmade items created by local artists. Each item in the store was created out of treasures found in thrift stores, neighbors' backyards, family attics and grannies' jewelry boxes. All of the beautiful jewelry art, home decor creations, furniture pieces and accessories are unique. Most of them look pretty funky, fresh and different! Such a lovely and inspirational place!<br> <br>Cashmere pieces made of upcycled cashmere by <a href="http://www.inside-out-by-irina.com/">Irina Baranova</a> and felted scarf handmade of repurposed silk and merino wool by <a href="http://www.CityCrochet.etsy.com/">TonyaUtkina</a>.<br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oH3V201WTyM/UbEhVEVM0EI/AAAAAAAABsI/rvmedFco_m0/s1600/refunkit1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oH3V201WTyM/UbEhVEVM0EI/AAAAAAAABsI/rvmedFco_m0/s320/refunkit1.jpg" /></a> <br> <br>Flowers and plant arrangements.<br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hBr-DL_zy0s/UbEhaXgbLBI/AAAAAAAABsQ/bMlrqwRKGjk/s1600/refunkit2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hBr-DL_zy0s/UbEhaXgbLBI/AAAAAAAABsQ/bMlrqwRKGjk/s320/refunkit2.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Necklaces hand crocheted of reused wooden beads and stones.<br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--apWAH1tdY4/UbEh13beW0I/AAAAAAAABsg/2ijWs3cOj-0/s1600/refunkit6.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--apWAH1tdY4/UbEh13beW0I/AAAAAAAABsg/2ijWs3cOj-0/s320/refunkit6.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Metal chandeliers and light fixtures.<br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4_agmzJAJY/UbEhsYVUEBI/AAAAAAAABsY/T96700CHCls/s1600/refunkit3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4_agmzJAJY/UbEhsYVUEBI/AAAAAAAABsY/T96700CHCls/s320/refunkit3.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Brooches hand felted of wool.<br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qeC0HEjcJIw/UbEiLo-cchI/AAAAAAAABso/5zcU0AGUthw/s1600/refunkit7.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qeC0HEjcJIw/UbEiLo-cchI/AAAAAAAABso/5zcU0AGUthw/s320/refunkit7.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Wooden toys.<br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w_wSTFcDPQs/UbEiZF1tuFI/AAAAAAAABsw/-z9jKwyraW4/s1600/refunkit4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w_wSTFcDPQs/UbEiZF1tuFI/AAAAAAAABsw/-z9jKwyraW4/s320/refunkit4.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Scarves hand felted in nuno felting technique.<br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--I6AOYiLt4U/UbEihTKRSaI/AAAAAAAABs4/DKZyjTH047I/s1600/refunkit8.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--I6AOYiLt4U/UbEihTKRSaI/AAAAAAAABs4/DKZyjTH047I/s320/refunkit8.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Hand crocheted mobiles.<br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D8TW-zwwQwc/UbEiqWnwkRI/AAAAAAAABtA/oC2-BzUcNA4/s1600/refunkit5.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D8TW-zwwQwc/UbEiqWnwkRI/AAAAAAAABtA/oC2-BzUcNA4/s320/refunkit5.jpg" /></a><br> <a href="//pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F06%2Frefunkit-repurposed-upcycled-recycled.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-oH3V201WTyM%2FUbEhVEVM0EI%2FAAAAAAAABsI%2FrvmedFco_m0%2Fs320%2Frefunkit1.jpg&description=Refunkit%20repurposed%20upcycled%20recycled%20gifts%20and%20goodies%20store%20in%20Ashland" data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-config="above"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br><div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2013/06/refunkit-repurposed-upcycled-recycled.html" data-send="true" data-width="450" data-show-faces="true"></div><br>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-37925397951526346882013-06-02T15:17:00.000-07:002013-06-02T15:22:07.550-07:00How to make a new upcycled necklace from an old oneI've recently bought a vintage necklace that looked rather old style and dusty. However, the beads were of high quality and of a very pretty color. They reminded me cranberries of all sizes and shades of red. I decided to upcycle the vintage necklace and turn it into something more contemporary and hip. <br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XEZ3QoIGwxk/Uao1Y0pwudI/AAAAAAAABp8/7unSpLBdV6M/s1600/RedNecklace4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XEZ3QoIGwxk/Uao1Y0pwudI/AAAAAAAABp8/7unSpLBdV6M/s320/RedNecklace4.jpg" /></a><br> <br>First of all I cut the necklace with a help of regular scissors to free up beads. I was lucky that the base of the necklace was a regular cotton thread and not a metal wire. <br> Beads looked very nice but were a bit dusty. I washed them with soap and left them to dry.<br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_CTH4HR3zYU/Uau5ntyM0fI/AAAAAAAABqM/Ij9fjLVJCVY/s1600/RedNecklace1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_CTH4HR3zYU/Uau5ntyM0fI/AAAAAAAABqM/Ij9fjLVJCVY/s320/RedNecklace1.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Once dry I put my beads in a glass jar. They looked so pretty with light coming through the jar and making beads shine. Beads are of all shades of red and of different sizes. I decided I won't use metal beads that were originally a part of the necklace. I'll to save them for a later project.<br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pc1I2kJ3phk/Uau6SUpiYjI/AAAAAAAABqU/cJEZ8nlP6E8/s1600/RedNecklace2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pc1I2kJ3phk/Uau6SUpiYjI/AAAAAAAABqU/cJEZ8nlP6E8/s320/RedNecklace2.jpg" /></a><br> <br>To crochet a new and hip necklace I used a crocheting hook and a super thin light blue thread. The combination of bright red and light blue looked super pretty! For a start I threaded all the beads mixing up sizes and colors. It saved me time and made the process of crocheting a necklace easier.<br> <br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0vFuL1O4NOc/Uau9fniVKkI/AAAAAAAABqg/xzbJe1qePhM/s1600/RedNecklace3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0vFuL1O4NOc/Uau9fniVKkI/AAAAAAAABqg/xzbJe1qePhM/s320/RedNecklace3.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Having so many beads I was able to crochet a long necklace. It's really great as I'll be able to wear it not only as a necklace but as a bracelet, a belt or a head accessory. I crocheted a simple foundation chain adding red beads about every inch. The necklace crocheting took about 15 minutes. When the necklace was ready I attached a toggle clasp to complete the work.<br> <br>It looks bright, hip, and very different from the original vintage necklace I bought. The new necklace is a perfect summer accessory! I'm especially happy I could reuse something I already had and turn it into something new.<br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n4jNp0aycHU/UavAaCqEzCI/AAAAAAAABqw/6T8I6TJ5fd4/s1600/RedNecklace5.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n4jNp0aycHU/UavAaCqEzCI/AAAAAAAABqw/6T8I6TJ5fd4/s320/RedNecklace5.jpg" /></a><br><div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2013/06/how-to-make-new-upcycled-necklace-from.html" data-send="true" data-width="450" data-show-faces="true"></div><br><a href="//pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F06%2Fhow-to-make-new-upcycled-necklace-from.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-XEZ3QoIGwxk%2FUao1Y0pwudI%2FAAAAAAAABp8%2F7unSpLBdV6M%2Fs320%2FRedNecklace4.jpg&description=How%20to%20make%20a%20new%20upcycled%20necklace%20from%20an%20old%20one" data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-config="beside"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-21576218697794936822013-05-14T08:19:00.000-07:002013-05-14T10:12:10.044-07:00Illustrations by matem-atykaI've known Misia Schmidt for many years now. She is a very talented artists and illustrator behind <a href="http://matem-atyka.com/">matem-atyka</a>. Born and raised in Poland she moved to U.S. in her early twenties. According to Misia is was "one of the best life changers so far!". Misia and her husband Peter lived in different parts of the country like Virginia, Illinois and have recently moved to Los Angeles, CA. <br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U5-b2rFJCqs/UZJV15eZbtI/AAAAAAAABps/DRe7iG4Fv2I/s1600/matem-atyka5.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U5-b2rFJCqs/UZJV15eZbtI/AAAAAAAABps/DRe7iG4Fv2I/s320/matem-atyka5.jpg" /></a><br> <br>I had a chance to talk to Misia about her life and art.<br> <br><b>How did you start?</b><br>I grew up reading or rather closely studying comic books. I wasn't as much interested in the words as the pictures themselves. Deciphering the story behind the drawings seemed to be more interesting than having it spelled out. I wanted to be an artist myself, create my own stuff. I did draw a lot during my childhood but then I picked it up again after I moved to the states. In my experience of growing up in Poland, art was never considered something important or even time worthy. I kept hearing I should focus on something more tangible.<br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lc0QvropnJw/UZJP-2QZu9I/AAAAAAAABpI/TGwU7rkvbo8/s1600/matem-atyka4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lc0QvropnJw/UZJP-2QZu9I/AAAAAAAABpI/TGwU7rkvbo8/s320/matem-atyka4.jpg" /></a><br> <br>I also didn't know anyone with artistic interests, so gradually I stopped (well, almost). Moving to the states changed a lot for me. I was granted such a new, fresh perspective on life, but strangely it allowed me to tap into my true nature again. Attending The School of the Art Institute of Chicago kind of sealed the deal for me. <br> <br><a href="http://matem-atyka.com/" ><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jqzrAezY3Zo/UZJRtCFr8GI/AAAAAAAABpc/6PmoUxI9A48/s320/matem-atyka1.jpg" /></a><br> <br><b>What are your major sources of inspiration?</b><br>For me to paint or draw is not a matter of finding inspiration. There is nothing romantic or inspirational about it. I can't explain how I arrive at my images. I guess it is the way I process my surroundings. It's a way of thinking and communicating. The good thing is I never run out of ideas, I only wish I was able to work faster.<br> <br>I should say that I do enjoy California more than any other places I've experienced. I'm simply overwhelmed with its abundance of light and nature. <br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mnyvvfaoTJ8/UZJPhL-SxEI/AAAAAAAABpA/RTl48I7YR_o/s1600/matem-atyka2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mnyvvfaoTJ8/UZJPhL-SxEI/AAAAAAAABpA/RTl48I7YR_o/s320/matem-atyka2.jpg" /></a><br><br><div class="fb-like" data-href="http://www.tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2013/05/illustrations-by-matem-atyka.html" data-send="true" data-width="450" data-show-faces="true"></div><br><a href="//pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.tonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fillustrations-by-matem-atyka.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-U5-b2rFJCqs%2FUZJV15eZbtI%2FAAAAAAAABps%2FDRe7iG4Fv2I%2Fs320%2Fmatem-atyka5.jpg&description=Illustrations%20by%20matem-atyka" data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-config="beside"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-29297994494729745812013-02-25T20:20:00.000-08:002013-05-09T12:40:24.853-07:00Creative accessories handmade by Natalia Sinelnik It's so much fun to come across a truly talented and creative person who makes one of a kind, bright and happy accessories. I stumbled upon Natalia Sinelnik's on-line shop <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/nathings">Nathings</a> while looking for bright accessories for spring and summer. <br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ck002hfy1JM/USwsqMn8-DI/AAAAAAAABkM/iX9XTQNd8hA/s1600/Natalia3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ck002hfy1JM/USwsqMn8-DI/AAAAAAAABkM/iX9XTQNd8hA/s320/Natalia3.jpg" /></a><br> <br><b>Could you please tell us a bit about yourself?</b><br>I was born in a Cossack family at the South of Russia in Krasnodar region. After graduating from a local art and design school with a diploma in interior design I worked as an architect in Adidas in Moscow. That was a great experience but I decided I have to strike it out on my own eventually. I switched to visual arts mostly photography and painting (watercolors). On top of this I knit and sew a lot as it's something I've been doing all my life. I sketch my own designs and hand make accessories for my friends and family.<br> <br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8i51wfW8sPs/USzJV2AbkzI/AAAAAAAABnA/NShjixxSSaQ/s1600/Natalia1-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8i51wfW8sPs/USzJV2AbkzI/AAAAAAAABnA/NShjixxSSaQ/s320/Natalia1-1.jpg" /></a><br> <br><b>How did you start?</b><br>My wonderful mom knows how to professionally sew, knit and crochet. She taught me all her secrets so that they are not lost eventually. I remember myself operating a small treadle sewing machine at the tender age of 6. What my mom couldn't teach me I learned by reading books and magazines. I've always been making fashion items for myself. But my true passion is lady's hats. Since I was 16 I've been making one or two hats for myself every year. I've accumulated a wonderful collection of beautiful and unique hats at my house.<br> <br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Qc9z0BM2Hc/USwwhCmowaI/AAAAAAAABlU/Ml_tnguK6IE/s1600/Natalia1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Qc9z0BM2Hc/USwwhCmowaI/AAAAAAAABlU/Ml_tnguK6IE/s320/Natalia1.jpg" /></a><br> <br><b>What are your main sources of inspiration?</b><br>I love to travel. Every time I'm in a new place I try to go to all the local museums to learn about local artists. If I cannot take pictures for some reason I always sketch the ornaments and patterns in my sketch book. I love the history of fashion. Early 20th century is my favorite time. I love Art Deco, Russian Modern, Flapper style and the silent movies era. I research millinery (hats' fashion) archives as many of the secrets of the hats' craftsmanship are unfortunately lost. Those who make hats today have to reinvent some of the hat making techniques and come up with their own now hows.<br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmQIN6944Rc/USwuglVfoSI/AAAAAAAABkY/DIwK7t6JZZo/s1600/Natalia4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmQIN6944Rc/USwuglVfoSI/AAAAAAAABkY/DIwK7t6JZZo/s320/Natalia4.jpg" /></a><br> <br><b>What fibers do you use?</b>For the summer accessories I prefer cotton and linen. For winter items I mostly use silk, velvet and wool. I like to experiment combining different fabrics with hand felted wool, hand knitted and crocheted pieces. It works well to add buttons, ribbons, etc. to accent a piece. I've recently got a new mannequin head for my hat making. I'm in a process of creating my summer hat collection that will be just amazing!<br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--ai0yTFrxsE/USwyXvAe8MI/AAAAAAAABlg/35WKcbeSKl4/s1600/Natalia2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--ai0yTFrxsE/USwyXvAe8MI/AAAAAAAABlg/35WKcbeSKl4/s320/Natalia2.jpg" /></a><br><a data-pin-config="beside" href="//pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F02%2Fcreative-accessories-handmade-by.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-Ck002hfy1JM%2FUSwsqMn8-DI%2FAAAAAAAABkM%2FiX9XTQNd8hA%2Fs320%2FNatalia3.jpg&description=Creative%20accessories%20handmade%20by%20Natalia%20Sinelnik%20" data-pin-do="buttonPin" ><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br><div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2013/02/creative-accessories-handmade-by.html" data-send="true" data-width="450" data-show-faces="true"></div>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-87033459528778891362013-02-22T08:45:00.000-08:002013-02-22T08:46:46.985-08:00Hand embroidered accessories by GalabornI'm sure many of us own one or two hand embroidered pillows or wall decorations inherited from our grand mothers. Often times hand embroidery brings memories of the past and something old fashioned. However, nowadays hand embroidery got a new twist. A few very talented and creative artists made hand embroidery fashionable again. One of them is Gala of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/GalaBorn">Galaborn</a> who lives in São Paulo, Brazil.<br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RcmA7ixiXFI/USeZ36vz8EI/AAAAAAAABjQ/OoWfkgKjpK4/s1600/gala3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RcmA7ixiXFI/USeZ36vz8EI/AAAAAAAABjQ/OoWfkgKjpK4/s320/gala3.jpg" /></a><br> <br><b>Could you tell us a bit about yourself?</b><br> <br>I'm originally from Russia. Some time ago I moved to Brazil with my husband and that changed my life completely. I feel like I belong to the whole world now and can pretty much live in any place. I started my on-line shop a few years ago. Having an on-line shop gives me a lot of flexibility. I can plan my own day and yet I'm able to do something I really love.<br> <br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RKkafx0lZVg/USeak0dDN5I/AAAAAAAABjY/sB8MrsVAwbI/s1600/gala2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RKkafx0lZVg/USeak0dDN5I/AAAAAAAABjY/sB8MrsVAwbI/s320/gala2.jpg" /></a><br> <br><b>How did you start?</b><br> <br>I started with making gifts for my friends and family. People I know really loved my items and started ordering not only small hand embroidered accessories but home decoration pieces as well. The word spread around and before I knew it I was hand embroidering items for my clients. The time has come to open my own shop. I believe that each piece should not only be beautiful but unique. It has to have its own character and style. I've graduated from an art and design school in Russia and my training helps me a lot.<br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sbrk0M_51Rk/USeb-lnUfMI/AAAAAAAABjg/M0rsABtsuWk/s1600/gala1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sbrk0M_51Rk/USeb-lnUfMI/AAAAAAAABjg/M0rsABtsuWk/s320/gala1.jpg" /></a><br> <br><b>What inspires you?</b><br> <br>Folk ornaments and crafts inspire me a lot. Sometimes my friends come up with a new idea and share it with me. I very much love what I do and this positive attitude somehow makes me very creative and productive. I know that eventually every piece will find its owner and will be mailed to a place far away.<br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VMNo6ZQPiRs/USeeGendZuI/AAAAAAAABjo/0DqpTDEM8tg/s1600/gala5.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VMNo6ZQPiRs/USeeGendZuI/AAAAAAAABjo/0DqpTDEM8tg/s320/gala5.jpg" /></a><br> <br>I really like to work with natural fabrics and yarns like cotton and linen. They are so great to work with. They basically radiate positive energy and are a real thing. Most of my embroidery is done on thick cotton by cotton threads. I try to use only natural and eco friendly supplies. My buttons are made of wood or coconut shell. They have unique designs and shapes as I pay a lot of attention to details. I very much believe in handmade and in every item being totally unique and special.<br><div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2013/02/hand-embroidered-accessories-by-galaborn.html" data-send="true" data-width="450" data-show-faces="true"></div><a data-pin-config="above" href="//pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F02%2Fhand-embroidered-accessories-by-galaborn.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-RcmA7ixiXFI%2FUSeZ36vz8EI%2FAAAAAAAABjQ%2FOoWfkgKjpK4%2Fs320%2Fgala3.jpg&description=Hand%20embroidered%20accessories%20by%20Galaborn" data-pin-do="buttonPin" ><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-8180780975040189162013-02-21T20:32:00.000-08:002013-02-22T12:07:21.663-08:00Face to Face art work by MarinaI've recently discovered an amazing artists <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/marina826">Marina</a> who lives in San Jose, California. Marina graduated from Stroganov Moscow State University of Arts and Industry. She is an accomplished artist whose beautiful pieces could be seen in private collections all over US and abroad.<br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rkJTvjDp78o/USZ7HZZUStI/AAAAAAAABh4/sgFeRsJnx9c/s1600/Marina3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rkJTvjDp78o/USZ7HZZUStI/AAAAAAAABh4/sgFeRsJnx9c/s320/Marina3.jpg" /></a><br> <br><b>How did you start?</b><br> <br>I always liked to draw. When I was a kid I used to go to a neighborhood art studio. Later I got accepted to an art college where I continued my training. Finally, I got into Stroganov Moscow State University of Arts and Industry the most famous and prestigious art school in Russia.<br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wdTB6lzkA3Q/USbvI1IBaxI/AAAAAAAABic/rZIbzhdwD0o/s1600/Marina2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wdTB6lzkA3Q/USbvI1IBaxI/AAAAAAAABic/rZIbzhdwD0o/s320/Marina2.jpg" /></a><br> <br><b>What is your favorite painting technique?</b><br> <br>I love to draw with oil and acrylic paints on canvases. I do ENGRAVINGS ON PAPER that is an original technique developed by me over years. I basically cut an image right on paper and then rub oil paint into the cut grooves. I like to add collages to my paintings as well. Sometimes I used ink, colored pencils, and acrylic paints to create images on pieces of handmade paper. I just really like to experiment!<br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vYSu_9C7mUg/USbwn4P6zyI/AAAAAAAABik/vE4yRVFSZmM/s1600/Marina4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vYSu_9C7mUg/USbwn4P6zyI/AAAAAAAABik/vE4yRVFSZmM/s320/Marina4.jpg" /></a><br> <br><b>What inspires you?</b><br> <br>Believe it or not but I actually get inspired by art supplies. When you are in an art supplies store you have a chance to take a close look at all the paints, papers, pencils, pastels that are available for artists to experiment with. I always get an urge to go home and try a new pencil or a unique handmade paper.<br> <br>Other artists' paintings and creations inspire me a lot. I buy books with artists' prints to look at for inspiration. I could compare it to a silent conversation between two artists. You see something beautiful and unique created by another artist and in response you feel an urge to create a piece of your own.<br> Occasionally I come across my old and forgotten piece and get inspired by it. <br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kNynH7sOJfQ/USbyEawKp1I/AAAAAAAABis/WQzjRwF_iOc/s1600/Marina1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kNynH7sOJfQ/USbyEawKp1I/AAAAAAAABis/WQzjRwF_iOc/s320/Marina1.jpg" /></a><br><div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2013/02/face-to-face-art-work-by-marina.html" data-send="true" data-width="450" data-show-faces="true"></div><br><a data-pin-config="above" href="//pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F02%2Fface-to-face-art-work-by-marina.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-rkJTvjDp78o%2FUSZ7HZZUStI%2FAAAAAAAABh4%2FsgFeRsJnx9c%2Fs320%2FMarina3.jpg&description=Face%20to%20Face%20art%20work%20by%20Marina" data-pin-do="buttonPin" ><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-83177341760834862322013-02-19T08:51:00.000-08:002013-02-19T08:53:48.086-08:00Floral arrangements and designs by Agnes StillfriedAgnes was born in Germany and worked as a Master florist in Hamburg. While living in Germany Agnes had 2 flower stores and a thriving floral arrangements and designs business.<br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9vYHsPVuynE/USOlO9G6x_I/AAAAAAAABhE/vSbqUH5mFao/s1600/DetailsWorkshop1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9vYHsPVuynE/USOlO9G6x_I/AAAAAAAABhE/vSbqUH5mFao/s320/DetailsWorkshop1.jpg" /></a><br> <br>20 years ago Agnes moved to a farm in Virginia where she resides now. That's when she started her US floral arrangements business. At her beautiful <a href="http://www.travelersrestfarm.com/">Travelers Rest Farm</a> Agnes grows all sorts of flowers, herbs, beautiful flowering bushes and trees. She makes frequent trips to the ocean to collect sea shells for her wreaths and flower arrangements. <br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hMXtf5k6PNs/USOnBwFElKI/AAAAAAAABhM/RrsyxxL4iq0/s1600/Agles-collage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hMXtf5k6PNs/USOnBwFElKI/AAAAAAAABhM/RrsyxxL4iq0/s320/Agles-collage2.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Agnes gets inspired by amazing nature of Virginia, old wooden barn structures, ocean shells and aquatic life. She is a huge fan or recycling, upcycling and sustainable living. She turns old wood, last year's flowers, walnuts and pine cones into unique and beautiful wreaths and home decoration pieces. <br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wBJJQnKYGCo/USOnkSelaHI/AAAAAAAABhU/4qR44vDJaKM/s1600/Agnes-collage4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wBJJQnKYGCo/USOnkSelaHI/AAAAAAAABhU/4qR44vDJaKM/s320/Agnes-collage4.jpg" /></a><br> <br><div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2013/02/floral-arrangements-and-designs-by.html" data-send="true" data-width="450" data-show-faces="true"></div><br><a data-pin-config="above" href="//pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F02%2Ffloral-arrangements-and-designs-by.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-wBJJQnKYGCo%2FUSOnkSelaHI%2FAAAAAAAABhU%2F4qR44vDJaKM%2Fs320%2FAgnes-collage4.jpg&description=Floral%20arrangements%20and%20designs%20by%20Agnes%20Stillfried" data-pin-do="buttonPin" ><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-29331932474519336862013-02-08T09:41:00.000-08:002013-02-08T09:43:03.678-08:00Winter flowerI found this simple flower walking by my house on a snow day. The color combination chocolate brown flower on white snow caught my eyes. I simply couldn't walk by:)<br><br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j4P67CNk0xs/URU4oV7Fz5I/AAAAAAAABgg/NYbGyJovNH0/s1600/BrownFlowerCol2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="242" width="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j4P67CNk0xs/URU4oV7Fz5I/AAAAAAAABgg/NYbGyJovNH0/s320/BrownFlowerCol2.jpg" /></a> <br> <div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2013/02/winter-flower.html" data-send="true" data-width="450" data-show-faces="true"></div><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F02%2Fwinter-flower.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-j4P67CNk0xs%2FURU4oV7Fz5I%2FAAAAAAAABgg%2FNYbGyJovNH0%2Fs320%2FBrownFlowerCol2.jpg&description=Winter%20flower" class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal"><img border="0" src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/PinExt.png" title="Pin It" /></a> TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-17430261631863957422013-02-07T11:47:00.000-08:002013-02-07T11:50:38.747-08:00Upcycled cashmere by Irina BaranovaRichmond, VA is famous for it's beautiful James river, southern cuisine and historic landmarks. It's now getting more and more attention for its vibrant arts and creative talent community. With the local university (VCU) art's school being ranked among the top art schools in the country and a number of local companies attracting international talent the city is turning into a very cool place to live in.<br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9XD6hkVsgVU/URP84zxul1I/AAAAAAAABfs/ilUWx4XRxeQ/s1600/UofR3-blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="287" width="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9XD6hkVsgVU/URP84zxul1I/AAAAAAAABfs/ilUWx4XRxeQ/s320/UofR3-blog.jpg" /></a><br> <br>One of the very talented and unique local textile artists is <a href="http://www.inside-out-by-irina.com/">Irina Baranova</a> who is originally from Russia. Irina works with luxurious textiles like cashmere, silk and linen turning them into wearable pieces of art. <br> <br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x7npaU8dJhY/URP8vWqOPlI/AAAAAAAABfU/pRs4XDK8SeI/s1600/Blog1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="243" width="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x7npaU8dJhY/URP8vWqOPlI/AAAAAAAABfU/pRs4XDK8SeI/s320/Blog1.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Irina upcycles items donated to her by friends and clients turning them into completely new designs. Mixing different fabrics, colors and fibers Irina creates stylish and beautiful sweaters, coats, skirts, vests that look luxurious and cozy at the same time. Every item turns out to be unique and special. Her style is instantly recognizable and you might have seen women and men wearing her designs in the streets of Richmond.<br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4njk6QoPKGA/URP8y7CneNI/AAAAAAAABfg/sWovMD3SSj0/s1600/Blog2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="244" width="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4njk6QoPKGA/URP8y7CneNI/AAAAAAAABfg/sWovMD3SSj0/s320/Blog2.jpg" /></a><br> <br><div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2013/02/upcycled-cashmere-by-irina-baranova.html" data-send="true" data-width="450" data-show-faces="true"></div><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F02%2Fupcycled-cashmere-by-irina-baranova.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-x7npaU8dJhY%2FURP8vWqOPlI%2FAAAAAAAABfU%2FpRs4XDK8SeI%2Fs320%2FBlog1.jpg&description=Upcycled%20cashmere%20by%20Irina%20Baranova" class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal"><img border="0" src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/PinExt.png" title="Pin It" /></a> TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-49256518817076656842013-02-06T12:31:00.000-08:002013-05-12T17:53:27.449-07:00Печём домашний хлеб - полезно и не сложноВы когда-нибудь пробовали испечь свой хлеб? Если нет, то давайте попробуем. Это совсем не сложно. Все, что вам понадобится это немного терпения и чугунная кастрюля с плотно прилегающей крышкой.<br> <br>Хлеб, который продается в магазинах зачастую не самый свежий и вкусный. В какой-то момент мы набрели на статью в газете <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2006/11/08/dining/08mini.html?_r=1">Нью Йорк Таймс</a>, где рассказывалось о том, как испечь хлеб в домашних условиях без хлебопечки. Мы решили попробовать и оказалось, что это совсем не сложно. При этом результат превзошел все наши ожидания! Такого вкусного хлеба мы наверное никогда еще не ели. Было особенно приятно, что испекли мы его сами, своими руками!<br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mF97jzjQIxU/UYv2-6l0wEI/AAAAAAAABnw/np3DnmSqES0/s1600/Bread1_rus.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mF97jzjQIxU/UYv2-6l0wEI/AAAAAAAABnw/np3DnmSqES0/s320/Bread1_rus.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Вам понадобятся:<br>500 гр. неотбелённой муки высшего сорта<br>375 гр. воды (75% веса муки)<br>1 и 1/2 чайной ложки соли<br>1/4 чайной ложки сухих дрожжей<br> <br>Чтобы хлеб получился воздушным и сдобным его необходимо выпекать в толстой чугунной кастрюле с плотно прилегающей крышкой (утятнице).<br> <br>Секрет выпечки домашнего хлеба - в точности измерений! Чтобы хлеб получился, надо очень точно отмерить пропорцию муки и воды. Именно поэтому и вода и мука приводятся в граммах. Вес воды должен составлять 75% веса муки.<br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-raCt9dnUzH0/UYv3UbHqEyI/AAAAAAAABn4/bVUQKL9vabI/s1600/Bread2_rus.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-raCt9dnUzH0/UYv3UbHqEyI/AAAAAAAABn4/bVUQKL9vabI/s320/Bread2_rus.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Процесс приготовления:<br>В отдельной кастрюле или миске легонько перемешайте муку, воду, соль и дрожжи. Достаточно просто дать муке немного намокнуть. Накройте миску полотенцем и забудьте про нее на 15-18 часов. Желательно, чтобы кастрюля стояла в месте с комнатной температурой. За это время дрожжевая культура разрастется до нужных размеров. Через 15-18 часов на поверхности муки вы увидите много больших пузырей. Наш хлеб готов к выпеканию!<br> <br>Чуть чуть присыпьте ваш хлеб мукой и выложите его из миски на стол. Сформируйте из массы круглую булку. Накройте булку полотенцем и дайте постоять 1,5 - 2 часа.<br> <br>Поставьте чугунную кастрюлю в духовку и разогрейте вашу духовку до 260 С. Кастрюля должна нагреться. Очень важно, чтобы на чугунной кастрюле не было пластмассовых ручек, иначе они расплавятся. Чугунная кастрюля будет очень горячей и поэтому надо очень аккуратно вынимать ее из духовки!<br> <br>Аккуратно переложите вашу булку в горячую чугунную кастрюлю. Накройте кастрюлю крышкой и выпекайте в течение 30 минут. После этого снимите крышку, убавьте температуру духовки до 215 С и выпекайте еще 15 минут, чтобы корка хлеба подрумянилась.<br> <br>Вот и все! В нашей семье этот хлеб съедается моментально! Мы заметили, что друзья стали чаще заглядывать к нам в гости. Уж не хлеб ли этому причиной?<br> <br>Удачного вам выпекания!<br> <br> <a href="//pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fblog-post.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-mF97jzjQIxU%2FUYv2-6l0wEI%2FAAAAAAAABnw%2Fnp3DnmSqES0%2Fs320%2FBread1_rus.jpg&description=%D0%9F%D0%B5%D1%87%D0%B5%D0%BC%20%D0%B4%D0%BE%D0%BC%D0%B0%D1%88%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B9%20%D1%85%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B1%20%D1%81%D0%B0%D0%BC%D0%B8!" data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-config="above"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br><div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2013/05/blog-post.html" data-send="true" data-width="450" data-show-faces="true"></div>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-13516768972696157642012-12-10T11:22:00.000-08:002012-12-10T15:27:59.965-08:00Secret Santa giftsMany thanks to my Secret Santas! I've received totally amazing gifts from two wonderful Artists. <br> <br>a set of Holiday Napkins from Keri of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/toocutecustomcrafts">Too Cute customs crafts</a><br><br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VlQKra-A0q8/UMY0j8__GVI/AAAAAAAABeQ/9vpaHhUMIVw/s1600/gift1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="213" width="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VlQKra-A0q8/UMY0j8__GVI/AAAAAAAABeQ/9vpaHhUMIVw/s320/gift1.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Keri also sent me these amazing earrings by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BlueberryCream">BlueberryCream</a> made of corrugated copper<br> <br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V6K-iXKAJ3U/UMY1JWMjC2I/AAAAAAAABec/_9c-NTeSMVQ/s1600/gift2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="236" width="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V6K-iXKAJ3U/UMY1JWMjC2I/AAAAAAAABec/_9c-NTeSMVQ/s320/gift2.jpg" /></a><br> <br>My next Secret Santa gift came from Elizabeth Urquhart of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/PureNaturePhotos">Pure Nature Photos</a><br><br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pZPrh1Frc6k/UMY1uTbX_aI/AAAAAAAABeo/RDtGJwZtYjs/s1600/gift3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="253" width="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pZPrh1Frc6k/UMY1uTbX_aI/AAAAAAAABeo/RDtGJwZtYjs/s320/gift3.jpg" /></a><br> <br>All these wonderful gifts will make my home happy:) Thank you so much!!! TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-28889941523930550032012-12-03T12:57:00.001-08:002012-12-04T08:25:54.425-08:00Giveaway Red Ornament Balls Christmas decorationI'm hosting my new giveaway. One lucky giveaway participant selected by a random number generator will win a set of eight hand felted red ornament balls of different sizes. Each red felted ball has a thread and could be an ideal Christmas tree decoration. To read more about hand felted Christmas balls please go to my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/CityCrochet">CityCrochet</a> shop.<br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--l6h4Q69h5M/UL0RML2nECI/AAAAAAAABdo/APgMu_BVOGc/s1600/RedBalls2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="224" width="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--l6h4Q69h5M/UL0RML2nECI/AAAAAAAABdo/APgMu_BVOGc/s320/RedBalls2.jpg" /></a><br> <br>The giveaway's last day is Tuesday, December 11th.<br> <br>To enter: Please visit my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/CityCrochet">CityCrochet</a> shop and leave a comment below about any item(s) you really like. Don't forget to leave your contact information (e-mail address, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest) so I can contact you in case you win. Your info will NEVER be used for any other purposes!!!<br> <br>Extra entries: Please leave one separate comment for each extra entry following the instructions below.<br> <br>Open to US and Canada only. Winner will be chosen by online random generator. The winner has 3 days to reply or another winner will be chosen. <br> <br>Good luck!:)<br> <br><a id="rc-a749ba3" class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/a749ba3/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script><br> <br><div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2012/12/giveaway-red-ornament-balls-christmas.html" data-send="true" data-width="450" data-show-faces="true"></div><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.tonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F12%2Fgiveaway-red-ornament-balls-christmas.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F--l6h4Q69h5M%2FUL0RML2nECI%2FAAAAAAAABdo%2FAPgMu_BVOGc%2Fs320%2FRedBalls2.jpg&description=Giveaway%20Red%20Ornament%20Balls%20Christmas%20decoration" class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal"><img border="0" src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/PinExt.png" title="Pin It" /></a>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-9988898524741470092012-11-13T17:14:00.002-08:002012-11-13T17:25:59.077-08:00Art glass by Dale ChihulyBeing a huge fan of glass I went to a Chihuly exhibition at <a href="http://www.vmfa.state.va.us/exhibitions/chihuly.aspx">VMFA</a> in Richmond, VA today. What a beautiful collection of amazing glass sculptures! Glass is very rewarding as it offers enormous possibilities as far as colors and shapes are concerned. Dale Chihuly glass sculptures are great illustrations of what an artist can make out of common silica or sand.<BR> <br> Fiori<br> <br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yKTq78WlrEc/UKLuluI4WzI/AAAAAAAABcY/uE_Dp5223kk/s1600/chihuly4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="260" width="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yKTq78WlrEc/UKLuluI4WzI/AAAAAAAABcY/uE_Dp5223kk/s320/chihuly4.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Persian Ceiling<br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bt2oMXLFCz0/UKLuq_HOaSI/AAAAAAAABck/rh7IFgHLAUM/s1600/chihuly2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="213" width="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bt2oMXLFCz0/UKLuq_HOaSI/AAAAAAAABck/rh7IFgHLAUM/s320/chihuly2.jpg" /></a><br> <br> Fiori<br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IuCQhj5Ti4Y/UKLuunRhpzI/AAAAAAAABcw/U3pnbwwLgBw/s1600/chihuly3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="225" width="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IuCQhj5Ti4Y/UKLuunRhpzI/AAAAAAAABcw/U3pnbwwLgBw/s320/chihuly3.jpg" /></a><br> <br>Persian Ceiling<br> <br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jVgeLlGXSM0/UKLuzU-LMxI/AAAAAAAABc8/KGvCYqoRCXs/s1600/chihuly1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="226" width="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jVgeLlGXSM0/UKLuzU-LMxI/AAAAAAAABc8/KGvCYqoRCXs/s320/chihuly1.jpg" /></a><br><div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2012/11/art-glass-by-dale-chihuly.html" data-send="true" data-width="450" data-show-faces="true"></div><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F11%2Fart-glass-by-dale-chihuly.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-yKTq78WlrEc%2FUKLuluI4WzI%2FAAAAAAAABcY%2FuE_Dp5223kk%2Fs1600%2Fchihuly4.jpg&description=Dale%20Chihuly%20glass%20sculptures" class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal"><img border="0" src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/PinExt.png" title="Pin It" /></a>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2305320412906157892.post-88422999921624624282012-10-25T10:50:00.000-07:002015-10-13T10:44:38.367-07:00Greeting cards embroidered and cross stitched by AleksandraRooAs the holiday season is approaching we will be looking for greeting cards for our friends and family members. There are great artists out there who hand embroider and cross stitch greeting cards turning them into art objects. One of the amazing greeting cards' artist is Aleksandra of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/AleksandraRoo">AleksandraRoo</a>.<br> <br><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cu8PpwGcqmg/UIlwj6fH4TI/AAAAAAAABZg/NdY2pHx0jAM/s1600/GreetingCard1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="226" width="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cu8PpwGcqmg/UIlwj6fH4TI/AAAAAAAABZg/NdY2pHx0jAM/s320/GreetingCard1.jpg" alt="rainbow daisy greeting card"/></a><br> <br><b>Could you please tell us a bit about yourself?</b><br> Originally I am from Russia, but today I live in a beautiful American city Pittsburgh (go Steelers!) with my husband Buzz and our precious Maltese Chewy. Me and my husband met 4 years ago and since then I couldn’t imagine my life without him – I had to travel half way around the world to find my best friend and my love. I am an Early Education teacher by day (I convert terrible twos into little individuals), and a craftoholic by night.<br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g13fOkrQCTQ/UIlxLF4ki_I/AAAAAAAABZs/6iRe05_WiyU/s1600/GreetingCard2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="213" width="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g13fOkrQCTQ/UIlxLF4ki_I/AAAAAAAABZs/6iRe05_WiyU/s320/GreetingCard2.jpg" alt="paper cutout greeting card"/></a><br> <br><b>How did you start? </b><br> There was a time when I had 24 hours a day to myself. I wasn’t able to work nor go to school at that time, so I decided I will teach myself graphic software, something that I was – and still am – so passionate about (my dream was to make 2D animation films). I learned Photoshop and Illustrator, and was fascinated by what you can do with colors. I think my love for crafts started just then. I found myself crocheting, making wire jewelry, quilling, scrapbooking, cross stitching, sewing (you name it, I’ve done it). I think I’ve found a creative volcano inside me that was waiting to erupt. I couldn’t decide on what to focus my attention, so I kept on going. 4 years later I find that the best creations I make are the ones that combine two different crafts in one finished product.<br> <br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9xEMXS9d03c/UIl1rj5bswI/AAAAAAAABaU/Levq1hfmP6Y/s1600/GreetingCard3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9xEMXS9d03c/UIl1rj5bswI/AAAAAAAABaU/Levq1hfmP6Y/s320/GreetingCard3.jpg" alt="quilling flower greeting card" /></a><br> <br><b>What are your main sources of inspiration?</b><br> Minimalism has been my very early inspiration (thanks to my older brother Vladimir). I love being able to send a strong message by using only few (yet enough) elements in my cards. I often like to use a single element and let one’s imagination do the rest. Being an Early Education teacher I know how important it is not to give away all the secrets at once and let children figure out the rest – something that a grown up definitely can benefit from, as well.<br>My two year old friends are my great source of inspiration also: genuine, honest, and joyful. I can not create anything but greeting cards filled with happiness.<br> <br>Along with my minimalistic nature, I am an extreme perfectionist. I constantly try to have my finished products looking polished, clean, and simply perfect. If something doesn’t look right, I start from the beginning. I am very harsh on myself when it comes down to my crafting (and everything else, really). But I know one thing - it all worth the time.<br> <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X8J92wWmRy0/UIl9TzYhJ3I/AAAAAAAABbw/AutYkk1XnVU/s1600/GreetingCard4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="242" width="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X8J92wWmRy0/UIl9TzYhJ3I/AAAAAAAABbw/AutYkk1XnVU/s320/GreetingCard4.jpg" /></a> <br> <div class="fb-like" data-href="http://tonyautkina.blogspot.com/2012/10/greeting-cards-embroidered-and-cross.html" data-send="true" data-width="450" data-show-faces="true"></div><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftonyautkina.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F10%2Fgreeting-cards-embroidered-and-cross.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-Cu8PpwGcqmg%2FUIlwj6fH4TI%2FAAAAAAAABZg%2FNdY2pHx0jAM%2Fs320%2FGreetingCard1.jpg&description=Greeting%20cards%20embroidered%20and%20cross%20stitched%20by%20AleksandraRoo" class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal"><img border="0" src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/PinExt.png" title="Pin It" /></a>TonyaUtkinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13849076010968144824noreply@blogger.com1